The Alarm frontman, who sang 80s hits including Sixty Eight Guns, was first diagnosed with lymph cancer in 1995, and after going into remission in 1996, he received the devastating news that his cancer had returned as Leukaemia in 2005.

Since then, Mike has received regular treatment on the Alaw Unit in Ysbyty Gwynedd.

Mike Peters alongside healthcare staff at the North Wales Cancer Treatment Centre earlier this year

“I want to give something back, because of the excellent care that I and my family have received from doctors and nurses and the health service in North Wales.

“The statistics show that one in three people suffer from cancer at the moment, and it looks set to rise to one in two in coming years. It’s important that we safeguard the future for our kids and communities.

“At present, it’s charitable funds keeping the NHS alive and there’s only so much governments can do.

“I worked it out that the distance between Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor and Ysbyty Maelor in Wrexham, also taking in Ysbyty Glan Clwyd is 351,120ft, and we want to raise a pound for each foot of that distance in the 30 months that the campaign will run.”

The aim of the campaign is to make a difference in the lives of cancer sufferers and their families so they know that despite everything there’s someone by their side.

Mike Peters at tuning up at home in Dyserth, Denbighshire

On the launch date today, Mike will hold the Big Busk at all three hospitals, where cancer patients, families and members of the music community will all get together.

“I’m hoping to engage with the public and put a smile on people’s faces,” said Mike. “I want to encourage people that they don’t have to be afraid.

“Every cancer story is unique, I would say take every minute you can and enjoy your life.”

Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board’s Head of Cancer Services Sharon Thomas said the “By Your Side” appeal would play an important role in helping healthcare staff deliver excellent care for an ever increasing number of patients.

“Because patients are living longer after a diagnosis of cancer we need more charitable support every year to ensure that our patients get the very best experience that they all deserve.”

Anyone who wants to get involved in Mike’s By Your Side campaign, and help raise funds to make a difference, can do so by contacting North Wales NHS Charity, Awyr Las, on 01248 384395, 07557312506, or by e-mail, to byyourside@wales.nhs.uk or visit the appeal website.